Longleaf pine dominated the southeastern landscape for millennia prior to European settlement; this is a fact of its evolution and natural history. As the original longleaf pine forests were harvested, there was little regard for regenerating these stands to their prior stockings. Through time the demand for fiber products grew, and because it was viewed as a "slow growing" species, interest in managing longleaf declined in the South. In response, loblolly pine plantation management dominated for decades. Forest managers did not seriously consider longleaf pine in their management plans because they believed that it had poor survival and slow early growth compared to loblolly and slash pines.
Today, the southern landscape and markets are changing. Timber markets are no longer what they were. In addition, recent spikes in reforestation costs across the southeast may limit landowner options, making natural regeneration an appealing alternative. Landowners have objectives beyond management for timber, but few believe longleaf can compete with loblolly and slash. While it may not be for everyone, longleaf pine management can provide unique land management opportunities. This course will help landowners and land managers understand longleaf pine growth and stand dynamics. Restoration techniques and additional income sources from non-timber forest products such as pine straw will also be discussed.
*This course will include a field tour. Field attire is required (e.g. boots, long pants, etc.).
For more information: http://www.aces.edu/forestry/documents/April26and27.pdf
Online registration will be available soon